Tampere mayor seeks to relocate far-right rally but lacks authority to ban it

Tampere’s mayor has called for legal changes to prohibit masked demonstrations after clashes during a far-right rally on May Day, though the city cannot unilaterally ban the event, Yle reports.

Mayor Ilmari Nurminen (SDP) stated that “radical, violent extremist groups are not welcome in Tampere,” following a demonstration by the far-right Sinimusta liike (Blue-Black Movement) in the city centre on 1 May. The rally, part of the group’s annual Valkoinen vappu (White May Day) event, was met by counter-protesters, and police are investigating an alleged assault during the march.

While the city plans to negotiate with police to relocate future demonstrations away from the central area, Nurminen acknowledged that municipal authorities lack the power to prohibit the event outright. “Freedom of assembly and speech are constitutionally protected,” he noted, adding that the city will “strongly convey our position” in discussions with police to “find alternative locations.”

Police retain authority over route and restrictions
Under Finnish law, demonstrations require no permit but must be notified to police, who may intervene if public order, safety, or traffic flow is threatened. Jouni Perttula, Tampere’s director of risk management and security, confirmed that the city can only advise on suitable locations, not enforce restrictions. “The city centre poses safety risks during May Day due to large crowds,” he said, citing limited space for separating opposing groups.

Nurminen criticised the use of face coverings by some demonstrators, which he argued should be banned by law to ensure accountability. “Protesting is a fundamental right, but it must be done peacefully and with faces visible,” he said. Police have struggled to identify suspects in the alleged assault due to masked participants.

Broader concerns over rising political violence
The mayor linked the incident to a wider trend of “increased confrontation, hatred, and even violence” in society, pointing to similar clashes during Finland’s Independence Day celebrations in Helsinki. “We must take a stand against this,” he urged.

Sinimusta liike has held its Valkoinen vappu event in Tampere for two consecutive years, with both editions marred by disturbances. Current Finnish law prohibits face coverings in public only if there is clear intent to commit violence or property damage.